Chapter 81: Beware of Li Si! A Private Audience with Wang Jian

Hearing Han Fei's words, Zhao Feng smiled faintly and leaned in slightly closer. "Then you won't outlive me."

"That's not certain," Han Fei retorted, still irked.

"Before we part, I have a word of advice for you."

Zhao Feng took out a small piece of cloth from his pocket and tossed it into Han Fei's prison carriage.

"I hope we meet again someday," Zhao Feng said with a wave of his hand before heading toward the military camp.

Inside the carriage, Han Fei picked up the piece of cloth and unfolded it. His expression turned peculiar, even somewhat shocked.

"Beware of Li Si!"

The cloth bore only these four words, but they left Han Fei utterly perplexed.

"Why would he tell me to beware of Li Si?"

"Could it be that Li Si might harm me?"

"That's impossible. Li Si and I share the same teacher; he's my fellow student and a good friend. Why would he do anything against me?"

Despite his doubts, Han Fei couldn't dismiss Zhao Feng's advice outright. Having interacted with him over the past few days, Han Fei knew Zhao Feng's blunt words masked a measured and steady character. He wouldn't issue such a warning without reason.

This planted a seed of suspicion in Han Fei's heart.

Inside the Military Camp

Led by the officer, Zhao Feng passed through the camp gates unimpeded and soon arrived at Wang Jian's command tent.

"Please inform the general that Zhao Feng, commander of the guards, has arrived," the officer said, bowing to the guards stationed outside.

"The general has ordered that Zhao Feng be admitted directly," one of the guards replied with a smile, casting a curious glance at Zhao Feng.

By now, Zhao Feng's name was well-known throughout the Lan Tian army camp. His deeds had earned him recognition, and even the soldiers stationed at the border were familiar with his legendary exploits.

The first-ever logistics officer to rise as a formidable commander!

"Commander Zhao, this is where I leave you," the officer said with a respectful salute.

"Thank you," Zhao Feng replied with a polite bow.

As he approached Wang Jian's tent, a sense of apprehension crept into his heart. Although he had briefly met Wang Jian before, this was the first time they would be speaking one-on-one.

Inside Wang Jian's Tent

Wang Jian was seated at his desk, reviewing military reports. As the supreme commander of the camp, he was deeply immersed in the affairs of war, with countless matters requiring his attention.

"Commander Zhao Feng reporting to General Wang Jian!"

Zhao Feng stepped into the tent and bowed deeply.

Wang Jian looked up and smiled warmly. "At ease. Take a seat."

"Thank you, General," Zhao Feng said, expressing his gratitude as he took a seat at the side.

Placing down the bamboo slips in his hand, Wang Jian's sharp gaze fell upon Zhao Feng.

"If I'm not mistaken, you're only fifteen years old, correct?" Wang Jian asked with a smile.

"In one month, I'll be sixteen," Zhao Feng replied.

"Sixteen and already a war hero breaking through Han's capital and capturing the king of Han," Wang Jian said, clearly impressed. "You are truly one of a kind!"

"You flatter me, General. I was merely fortunate," Zhao Feng replied humbly.

"Fortune is but a part of it. Your skills far outweigh your luck," Wang Jian said meaningfully.

Zhao Feng smiled modestly, "Compared to you, General, I'm still far behind."

"You sly fox," Wang Jian teased with a chuckle. "Back in the training camp, you must have been holding back, weren't you?"

"Not intentionally, General. I simply wasn't as focused back then," Zhao Feng replied diplomatically.

In truth, Zhao Feng had deliberately stayed under the radar during his time in the training camp, focusing more on survival than ambition. His cautious approach allowed him to build up his abilities while staying out of harm's way.

"Your combat achievements have already been reported to His Majesty," Wang Jian said with a smile. "You can expect royal commendation in the coming days."

"Thank you, General," Zhao Feng replied, though his expression remained calm and composed.

"You don't seem excited. Aren't you curious about what rewards you might receive?" Wang Jian asked, intrigued by Zhao Feng's composure.

"Qin's merit-based system is strict. Whatever rewards I receive will be determined accordingly. There's no point in overthinking it," Zhao Feng answered plainly.

"Such steadiness of mind truly the mark of a leader," Wang Jian praised.

He then revealed, "Based on your contributions, you'll likely be promoted to deputy general and have your noble rank elevated by three tiers. To achieve such recognition in less than a year of service is unprecedented."

"I'm deeply grateful, General," Zhao Feng said with a bow.

"By the way, your unit will remain stationed here in Han territory under Li Teng's command. The rest of the army will withdraw to the main camp," Wang Jian informed him.

"That aligns perfectly with my plans," Zhao Feng thought, his mind already racing with ideas. The chaos in the newly conquered Han territory presented a prime opportunity for him to build a foundation for his ambitions.

"General, I have one request," Zhao Feng said, suddenly rising from his seat and bowing deeply.

"This may be presumptuous, even audacious, but as a man, I must say it."

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